Summer's arrival means getting outside for some fun in the sun. Whether hiking, camping or gardening, allergy and
asthma sufferers can manage symptoms by taking the proper precautions, according to the
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).
"Allergic diseases affect more than 20% of the U.S. population and outdoor allergies are especially troublesome in early summer when trees and grass release their pollen and weeds begin to grow," said John J. Costa MD, an allergist/immunologist in Boston, MA and fellow of the AAAAI. The AAAAI offers tips on how to enjoy your summer outdoors with allergies and asthma.
Camping
Summer kicks off the start of camping season for kids and families everywhere. There is nothing like a gooey s'more, ghost stories around the fire and canoeing with friends. But before heading outdoors for your camping trip this summer, learn what you can do to avoid allergy and asthma triggers lurking outdoors and in the wilderness.
- Air out your equipment before you leave, look for mold in tents and tarps and wash off any you see with a hot water and bleach solution.
- Bring along your allergy and/or asthma medication, so you are prepared for any trigger that may cross your path.
- Remember to pack food that is friendly to people with food allergies, check with your group to see what people are allergic to and do not bring that item.
- Check out your camp site for ragweed, poison oak or poison ivy and other plants that may cause allergic reactions. Bring ointments and medications just in case.
- When building a fire, make sure that people who have asthma sit farther away and out of the wind so the smoke does not irritate their lungs.
Bee-ware of insects
Summer is also the time of year when people are stung by bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets or fire ants. Most people will experience temporary redness, swelling and itching at the site of the sting. But for people allergic to stinging insects, their immune systems will overreact to the venom injected by the insects resulting in severe reactions. Follow these tips to avoid stinging insects: